North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce that Dr. Meir Magal, Program Director, Inaugural Souza Professor of Exercise Science, and Chair of the School of Health Sciences, is recognized as the second author of a newly published American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) consensus statement that redefines the components of physical fitness for the modern era.
Published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, the ACSM’s peer-reviewed flagship journal, widely recognized for top-tier multidisciplinary research in sports medicine and exercise science, The Components of Physical Fitness presents an updated, evidence-based framework that reflects decades of scientific advancement. The consensus statement identifies five interconnected components of physical fitness: cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, body composition, neuromotor fitness, and flexibility.
About the Publication
The publication replaces the longstanding distinction between “health-related” and “skill-related” fitness with a more comprehensive model that better reflects current research and supports individualized assessment across adulthood.
“This project took nearly five years to complete, and I am honored to have collaborated with leading experts in our field as the second author on this publication,” said Dr. Magal. “I believe this publication not only advances the field but also enhances the university’s visibility and reputation.”
Consensus statements published by ACSM are developed by nationally and internationally recognized experts and serve as important references for educators, researchers, clinicians, and exercise professionals. The updated framework is expected to influence how physical fitness is taught, assessed, and applied in academic, clinical, and performance settings.
“Dr. Magal’s contribution to this landmark publication reflects the caliber of scholarship and leadership found within our School of Health Sciences,” said NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff. “Having one of our faculty members help shape national conversations in exercise science reinforces our commitment to academic excellence and provides our students with the opportunity to learn from leaders who are actively advancing their profession.”
Why this matters for Wesleyan
As Chair of the School of Health Sciences, Dr. Magal brings decades of experience in exercise physiology, human performance, and research. His involvement in this international initiative further strengthens North Carolina Wesleyan University’s growing reputation for excellence in health sciences education and research.
NCWU continues to invest in innovative academic programs that prepare students to become leaders in healthcare, human performance, and related fields. Faculty scholarship such as this ensures students benefit from instruction grounded in the latest scientific discoveries while contributing to the advancement of their disciplines.
For more information about North Carolina Wesleyan University’s School of Health Sciences, visit ncwu.edu.
NCWU Expands Global Reach Through New Philippines Partnership
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) has strengthened its commitment to global education through a newly established international partnership with Benguet State University (BSU) in the Philippines. The two institutions recently formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will foster academic cooperation, research, cultural exchange, and international learning opportunities.
The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in academics, research, skills development, and other initiatives designed to enhance the educational experience for students, faculty, and researchers at both universities. Through the partnership, NCWU and BSU will explore opportunities for faculty, researcher, and student exchanges, as well as the sharing of academic resources through both in-person and virtual formats.
NCWU President Dr. Evan Duff, a signatory to the agreement, was represented at the signing ceremony by Dr. Tim Dornemann, Associate Professor of Exercise Science. During the visit, Dr. Dornemann met with BSU President Dr. Kenneth Alip Laruan to discuss future initiatives that extend beyond the provisions of the MOU, reinforcing both institutions’ shared vision for meaningful international collaboration.
“Our partnership with Benguet State University represents an exciting opportunity to expand the global experiences available to our students and faculty,” said Dr. Duff. “By working together across cultures and disciplines, we can create meaningful educational opportunities, strengthen research collaborations, and prepare our students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.”
The discussions provided university leaders with the opportunity to learn more about each institution’s academic programs, strategic priorities, and ongoing developments. The exchange highlighted a mutual commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and international engagement while identifying areas where collaboration can create lasting benefits for both universities.
Through this partnership, NCWU and BSU will combine their expertise and resources to develop collaborative programs that enrich teaching, research, and student learning. The agreement is expected to support joint research projects, academic exchanges, professional development opportunities, and initiatives that promote intercultural understanding and global citizenship.
As North Carolina Wesleyan University continues to expand its international partnerships, the collaboration with Benguet State University reflects the University’s dedication to providing students with transformative educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom and across the globe.
Dunn Center to Host Dual Art Exhibition
Community Art Reception Celebrating Creativity and Connection between Tar River Art Gallery and Nash Correctional Institution Art Club
ROCKY MOUNT, N.C., June 22, 2026 — In the spirit of a classic Hollywood double feature, the Dunn Center on the campus of North Carolina Wesleyan University will host an extraordinary art-filled afternoon on Sunday, June 28, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. The public is invited to attend this free event celebrating the simultaneous unveiling of two distinct exhibitions: “Beyond the Wall” in the Mims Gallery and a large-scale multi-artist showcase in the Janice Gravely Gallery.
Sponsored by R F Timberlake & Company, Inc., the summer reception supports both 40 artists from the Tar River Art Gallery( TRAG) and more than 100 artists from the Nash Correctional Institution Art Club. Guests will enjoy light refreshments, view a diverse collection of original artwork, and experience live musical accompaniment from acclaimed regional cellist Jeff Hatley.
Beyond the Wall Art Exhibit
At the heart of the event is “Beyond the Wall,” a compelling exhibition presented by the Nash Correctional Institution Art Club. On display from June 5 through July 30, the exhibit features 43 original works installed directly on the gallery walls. Visitors will have the opportunity not only to view the art, but also to participate in an ongoing silent auction. In a powerful gesture of community support, all proceeds from the auction will benefit the Your Choice Resource Center in Rocky Mount.
The Dunn Center’s role as host underscores its growing reputation as a regional cultural destination. With a proven track record of attracting significant public interest — including a recent Bob Ross exhibition that drew more than 13,000 visitors from around the world — the Center offers a uniquely powerful platform for showcasing both emerging and established artists. This dual exhibition continues that tradition by pairing the deeply personal and rehabilitative work of incarcerated artists with the accomplishments of recognized local creators.
Free Event and Reception Planned
Equally important is the event’s accessibility. Free admission and a welcoming location remove common barriers to participation, inviting families, students, and art enthusiasts alike to engage in a shared cultural experience. By opening its doors to a broad audience, the Dunn Center fosters dialogue, appreciation, and understanding through the universal language of art.
The June 28 reception is designed not just as an exhibition opening, but as an act of community-building. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet fellow art lovers, interact directly with the works on display, and consider the broader stories behind them. From bidding on pieces in the silent auction to listening to live music, the event encourages visitors to connect more deeply with both the artwork and the community it represents.
Ultimately, the afternoon offers more than an aesthetic experience — it is an invitation to look beyond the surface of each painting and discover the layered narratives of hope, talent, and transformation that define the region.
CONTACT:
Jan Sullivan Volz, Art Curator, Tar River Art Gallery
(252) 532-2130
Frank Timberlake
(919) 269-4300 OF or (919) 805-0055 CELL
Dunn Center and Tar River Art Gallery. (Jun 17, 2026, 08:37 ET). Dunn Center to Host Unique Double Art Feature Exhibits Opening With a Free Public Reception on June 28. PR Newswire. READ ARTICLE >
Susan Powell The Powell Perspective. (Jun 17, 2026). Art’s Dual Mandate: Correction and Creativity at the Dunn Center. BriefGlance.com. READ ARTICLE >
School of Mathematics & Sciences Celebrates a Year of Achievement
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s School of Mathematics and Sciences is proud to share highlights from the 2025–2026 academic year—showcasing outstanding student accomplishments, faculty excellence, and dynamic experiential learning opportunities across disciplines.
Encompassing programs in biology, biomedical science, chemistry, environmental science, earth science, mathematics, and physics, the School continues to provide students with rigorous academic training, mentorship, and real-world preparation for future success.
A Community That Goes “Beyond the Textbook”
the unique value of a Wesleyan education—one rooted not just in knowledge but in shared academic experience. Through collaborative learning, faculty mentorship, and hands-on engagement, students gain both intellectual depth and meaningful personal growth.
Honors Convocation Recognizes Academic Excellence
At the April 2, 2026 Honors Convocation, top students were recognized for their academic achievements:
- Biology Award: Benjamin Sellers
- Chemistry Award: Mary Bentley
- American Institute of Chemists Award: Mary Bentley
- Environmental Science Award: Andrea Elaez Miranda
- Kappa Mu Epsilon Mathematics Honor Society Inductees:
Cosima Geywitz, Ivy Joy Chelegat, Juan Felipe Gonzalez Leuro, Mary Bentley
Students Shine Through Research and Professional Experiences
NCWU students demonstrated exceptional achievement through research presentations, internships, and national conferences.
- Environmental science students presented original research at the Carolinas SETAC Conference hosted by NC State.
- Andrea Elaez Miranda presented at the Society for Freshwater Science Meeting in Washington, gaining valuable professional insights and networking opportunities.
- Through an NSF GeoPath grant, students engaged with local schools, promoting STEM education in the community.
Notable Student Highlights
- Cosima Geywitz earned the prestigious GlaxoSmithKline Women in Science Scholar Award.
- Mary Bentley achieved remarkable success, including:
- Acceptance into multiple nationally funded research programs
- Internship at Los Alamos National Laboratory
- Over $12,000 in Department of Energy funding
- Multiple research opportunities and publications in progress
- Environmental Science students gained field experience through internships with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, contributing to conservation initiatives statewide.
Student Symposium Highlights Innovation
The annual Student Science Symposium, held April 9, 2026, featured cutting-edge undergraduate research.
Poster Competition Winners:
- Lower-Level: Connor Jones & Daniel Smith
- Upper-Level: Benjamin Sellers & Ayden Harper
Honors Program Milestones
Students in the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program completed impactful research projects spanning chemistry and environmental science.
The School also recognized Dr. Bill Yankosky for his extraordinary 18 years of service as Honors Program Director. His leadership fostered strong student mentorship and a thriving academic community.
Faculty Achievements and Leadership
Faculty continued to excel in teaching, research, and service:
- Dr. Brent Dozier was promoted to Professor of Mathematics
- Dr. Emily Weber earned tenure, promotion, and the Excellence in Teaching Award
- Dr. Justin Davis published research through Caltech’s microPublication platform
- Ms. Brittany Al Attabi successfully launched NCWU’s first Regional Science Olympiad, hosting over 300 students
- Dr. Daniel Elías published research, mentored student publications, and led an immersive ecological study abroad experience in Belize
Global and Experiential Learning
Students participated in a transformative field experience in Belize, exploring ecosystems, conservation efforts, and cultural history. This hands-on opportunity reinforced NCWU’s commitment to experiential and global learning.
Building Community Through STEM
The School also hosted engaging campus events, including:
- Science Olympiad Tournament bringing regional students to campus
- Pi Day 2026 celebrations, blending mathematics with campus fun
Looking Ahead
The 2025–2026 academic year reflects the School’s dedication to academic excellence, experiential learning, and community engagement. With strong student outcomes, innovative research, and passionate faculty, NCWU’s School of Mathematics and Sciences continues to prepare students for success beyond the classroom.
Explore more and join our community of scholars. Your journey starts here.
NC Wesleyan Earns Clean Fifth-Year Accreditation Review from SACSCOC
What is SACSCOC?
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce it has successfully completed its Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Fifth-Year Interim Committee Review, receiving a completely clean audit, full compliance across all reviewed standards with no follow-up reports, no referrals, and no additional monitoring required. It will formally go to the SACSCOC Board of Trustees in June for approval.
The SACSCOC Fifth-Year Interim Review is a rigorous evaluation that takes place midway through an institution’s 10-year accreditation cycle. The review assesses continued compliance with key accreditation standards and evaluates the progress and effectiveness of the institution’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), a long-term initiative designed to improve student learning and success.
During the review, SACSCOC evaluated NCWU’s compliance with 22 specific core requirements and standards, including areas such as faculty qualifications and adequacy, student achievement, academic program quality, student support services, distance education policies, transparency, and institutional effectiveness.
In addition, NCWU submitted its Quality Enhancement Plan Impact Report, which was reviewed and accepted by the SACSCOC committee. “Dr. Daniel Elias (Associate Professor of Environmental Science/Program Coordinator, Environmental Science) provided extraordinary leadership in preparing NCWU’s Quality Enhancement Plan,” said Dr. Joe Lane, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Contributions & Recognitions
“This is an extraordinary milestone for North Carolina Wesleyan University,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. “Successfully completing the SACSCOC Fifth-Year Interim Review with a completely clean audit is a tremendous accomplishment and a powerful affirmation of the quality, integrity, and dedication that defines Wesleyan. Our faculty and staff don’t simply prepare for accreditation, they live our standards every day, ensuring our students receive an exceptional educational experience.”
A clean Fifth-Year Interim Review is an achievement reached by only a small percentage of institutions, making the outcome a significant validation of NCWU’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
The successful review reflects the work of the University’s Institutional Effectiveness team, along with strong collaboration across academic and administrative departments.
Dr. Duff specifically recognized the leadership of Dr. Jarrod Kelly, Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness and Accreditation, and Scott Marsigli, Institutional Effectiveness Analyst and Administrative Assessment Coordinator, who played key roles in coordinating the review process and preparing the comprehensive report submitted to SACSCOC. The Provost’s Office was also acknowledged for its coordination and oversight to ensure academic programs and student outcomes were thoroughly documented and aligned with accreditation expectations.
In reflection, Dr. Jarrod Kelly shares, “Having the SACSCOC Review Committee raise zero questions or concerns about our report speaks to the dedication and commitment of faculty and staff, particularly the team who spent over a year working on the report. To my knowledge, NCWU has never had a completely clean review with no committee findings. I believe that this reflects positively on our approach since our last reaffirmation to better educate and inform the campus community about the goals and importance of accreditation processes for maintaining quality and building a culture of continuous improvement.”
“This accomplishment is a reflection of the collective excellence of our entire campus community,” Dr. Duff added. “It reinforces that North Carolina Wesleyan University is not only meeting expectations, but we are exceeding them. We are on strong footing as we continue toward our next full reaffirmation, and I could not be prouder of the team that makes this institution so special.”
NC Wesleyan remains committed to providing a high-quality educational experience that supports student success, strengthens academic programs, and serves the broader community with integrity and purpose.
Rock the Mount at NC Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is excited to announce the return of its annual Rock the Mount celebration, an honored tradition that marks the official start of the academic year and warmly welcomes incoming students to campus and the local community. Sponsored this year by First Carolina Bank, the event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 17 – the day before fall classes begin.
Held each fall, Rock the Mount is a vibrant, high-energy event featuring local businesses, nonprofits, churches, and campus partners who line the heart of campus with booths, giveaways, and smiles. It’s a chance to showcase community offerings while connecting with students who are new to the area and eager to get involved.
Maxie T. Coker, Jr, Senior Commercial Banking Officer, and Elizabeth Overton, Team Support Specialist for First Carolina Bank, share, “First Carolina Bank greatly values our relationship with North Carolina Wesleyan University and looks forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come. Rock the Mount is a fantastic event that connects the local community with the university’s students and creates a meaningful shared experience for everyone involved. We’re excited to make 2026 the best year yet!”
What to Expect:
The day begins with a signature Wesleyan tradition: the Bishop Tunnel. Hundreds of new students take part in this spirited rite of passage as they walk through a tunnel of applause, cheers, and encouragement from returning students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. At the end of the tunnel, they’re greeted personally by President Dr. Evan D. Duff and his wife, Marcy, then proceed toward a vibrant festival of tents, music, and engagement opportunities.
Vendor spaces are in high demand, with limited spots available. If you wish to have your spot secured for this event, contact Elliott now! Local restaurants, coffee shops, service providers, churches, and nonprofits are encouraged to participate. Whether you’re an automotive shop (freshmen can have cars on campus!), a local café, or a church seeking new connections, this is a unique chance to reach a new audience of potential customers, volunteers, interns, or even future employees.
This year’s entertainment will include DJ 3two1, along with a variety of food trucks offering local flavor, including:
- Three Boys Catering (Alumni Owned)
- Minnie’s Food and Thingz
- Sweet P’s Galaxy Lemonade
- CPS Catering
- Shawarmalicious
- Fairy Tale Concessions
- Carolina Icee
- Taquria La Lupita
Vendor Information:
- NCWU will provide a 6-foot table.
- Vendors should bring a tablecloth.
- Tents (up to 10’x10’) are optional but recommended for shade.
- Giveaways are not required but encouraged to boost engagement.
- Participation is free, but space is limited.
Registration Deadline: Friday, July 31. Early registration is encouraged.
Sign Up Here: Rock the Mount Vendor Link
Join us in making a memorable first impression and welcoming the NCWU Class of 2030 in style! For more information, contact Elliott Smith at esmith@ncwu.edu.
NC Wesleyan Music Production Program Releases First EP, “Indie Rock”
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce the release of the first-ever music Extended Play (EP) produced through its Music Production degree program. The four-song cover EP, titled “Indie Rock,” is now available on Spotify, YouTube, iTunes, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms.
Released on April 10, 2026, the Extended Play represents a major milestone for the growing Music Production program and showcases the hands-on learning experiences offered to students at NCWU. The project was a collaborative effort between two music production courses during the Fall 2025 semester, providing students with real-world experience in multiple stages of professional music creation.
Throughout the project, students applied key skills developed through the program, including music analysis, live performance preparation, studio recording techniques, mixing, and mastering, culminating in a polished final production distributed through the University’s official record label, 301 North Records.
Students involved in the project include:
- Noah Jacques – production
- Elly Luna – production, vocals
- Dakota Lynch – production, vocals, guitars
- Edgar Ortiz-Morales – production, bass
- Adrian Parson – production
- Lamont Taylor Jr. – production, vocals, keyboards
Also contributing to the project was Elic Gurganus, Technical Director of the Dunn Center at NCWU, who served as a guest vocalist on the EP. The project’s Executive Producer was Tony Sawyer, Assistant Professor of Music Production, who also performed all drums and percussion for the recordings.
The “Indie Rock” EP features covers of four well-known songs from prominent indie artists: Hozier (“Too Sweet”), Djo (“End of Beginning”), Tame Impala (“Elephant”), and Peter Bjorn and John (“Young Folks”).
With this release, NCWU continues expanding creative opportunities for students through experiential learning and professional-level production experiences. The EP stands as a strong example of the University’s commitment to preparing students for careers in the music and entertainment industries.
The EP is now available on all major streaming services.
NC Wesleyan to Host NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds This Weekend
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) will serve as host site for the NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds this weekend, welcoming some of the nation’s top programs to Rocky Mount for a high-stakes postseason competition.
The tournament will take place Friday through Sunday, May 8–11, with teams arriving on campus Thursday for practice sessions. The championship format features team competition, with both singles and doubles matches contributing to the overall team score.
NC Wesleyan will be one of six teams competing in the tournament, along with Albright College, Stevens Institute of Technology, Penn State Harrisburg, Emory University, and Johns Hopkins University.
“Being selected to host an NCAA postseason competition reflects positively on NC Wesleyan’s facilities, operations, and overall commitment to providing a high-quality student-athlete experience,” said Madison Morrison, Assistant Athletic Director. “It speaks to the trust the NCAA has in our ability to execute a championship-level event.”
Hosting responsibilities involve extensive planning and campus collaboration. From preparing facilities to coordinating travel and accommodations for teams and officials, the event requires alignment across athletics staff, facilities teams, and multiple campus partners.
“There is extensive coordination involved, including facility preparation, team and officials’ travel and accommodations, scheduling, compliance with NCAA championship protocols, and ensuring a strong game-day environment,” Morrison said. “It is a collaborative effort across athletics, facilities, and campus partners.”
Tennis Head Coach Albie Brice highlighted the tradition NC Wesleyan tennis has built in recent years and the significance of being selected once again as a regional host site.
“The Men’s and Women’s programs have established a tradition of excellence through unwavering dedication and hard work both on and off the court,” Brice said. “This marks the third time the Men’s Team has been chosen as an NCAA Regional Host since 2021, while the Women’s Team has hosted twice since then. In the past six years, NCWU has hosted five NCAA Regionals, showcasing its commitment to nurturing top-tier tennis talent.”
Brice also emphasized the competitive level of the tournament field and the opportunity for the weekend to produce memorable postseason moments.
“We anticipate an exceptional tennis tournament this weekend featuring some of the nation’s finest teams,” Brice said. “This regional is expected to be highly competitive, and the victorious team will undoubtedly receive a prestigious accolade to enhance its program’s illustrious history.”
“North Carolina Wesleyan is proud to welcome NCAA postseason competition to our campus,” said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of North Carolina Wesleyan University. “Hosting the NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds reflects the excellence of our athletic programs and the dedication of our coaches, staff, and student-athletes. We invite the community to join us in celebrating this exciting opportunity and supporting our Battling Bishops.”
Fans are encouraged to attend matches and help create an energetic environment as NC Wesleyan takes the national stage in NCAA postseason play.
“Attending matches, creating an energetic and respectful environment, and helping us showcase the hospitality NC Wesleyan is known for all go a long way,” Morrison added.
Championship Schedule (All Times Eastern)
Friday, May 8
10:00 a.m. – Stevens vs. Penn State Harrisburg (Match 1)
2:00 p.m. – NC Wesleyan vs. Albright (Match 2)
Saturday, May 9
10:00 a.m. – Emory vs. Winner of Match 1 (Match 3)
2:00 p.m. – Johns Hopkins vs. Winner of Match 2 (Match 4)
Sunday, May 11
12:00 p.m. – Winner of Match 3 vs. Winner of Match 4 (Match 5)
Event Details
Event: NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championship Preliminary Rounds (First, Second, Third Rounds)
Location: North Carolina Wesleyan University (Rocky Mount, N.C.)
Dates: May 8–11, 2026
Teams Competing: NC Wesleyan, Albright, Stevens, Penn State Harrisburg, Emory, Johns Hopkins
Format: Team competition including singles and doubles matches
Other Bishops Competing
In addition to hosting the NCAA Men’s Tennis preliminary rounds, NC Wesleyan Women’s Tennis will begin NCAA Tournament play on Thursday, May 7, traveling to Emory University for a first-round matchup against Asbury University at 10:00 a.m. The NC Wesleyan Softball team will also continue postseason competition this weekend, competing in the USA South Conference Championship Series beginning Friday at 1:00 p.m. at Pfeiffer University.
All matches and games will be streamed live through the NC Wesleyan athletics website at ncwsports.com
NC Wesleyan MPH Gains CEPH Applicant Status
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is pleased to announce that its Master of Public Health (MPH) program has received approval of its initial application for accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), the nationally recognized accrediting body for schools and programs of public health.
The application was reviewed and approved during CEPH’s April meeting, granting the NCWU MPH program official applicant status. This designation authorizes the program to advance to the next stage of the accreditation process, which includes completion of a comprehensive self-study aligned with CEPH accreditation criteria.
CEPH accreditation is widely recognized as a national mark of quality and serves as an assurance that public health programs meet rigorous educational and professional standards. Receiving applicant status represents an important milestone toward full accreditation and reflects the program’s progress in meeting CEPH eligibility requirements and demonstrating readiness for comprehensive evaluation.
“This is an exciting step forward for our MPH program and for North Carolina Wesleyan University,” said Dr. Shannon Crowley, Professor of Public Health and MPH Program Director. “Achieving CEPH applicant status demonstrates the strength of our program and our commitment to preparing future public health professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to make a difference in their communities.”
NCWU’s Master of Public Health program is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in public health principles, leadership, research, and applied practice. The program offers specialized concentrations in Physical Activity and Health and Social Epidemiology, distinguishing NCWU as the only institution in North Carolina to offer these MPH focus areas,Accreditationand aligns with the university’s mission to address critical health challenges through high‑quality, community‑focused graduate education.
The MPH program will now begin the formal self-study process and continue progressing through CEPH’s multi-step accreditation pathway.
For more information about NCWU’s Master of Public Health program, visit https://ncwu.edu/academics/graduate-programs/master-of-public-health/.
OnlineMasters.com Ranks North Carolina Wesleyan University Among Best in the U.S.
OnlineMasters.com, a trusted resource for accredited online graduate education, has recognized North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) in its annual rankings, naming the University among the Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs for 2026.
This distinction reflects NCWU’s commitment to delivering high-quality, career-focused graduate education, particularly for adult learners balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities while pursuing advanced degrees.
Unlike traditional ranking systems, OnlineMasters.com uses a data-driven methodology designed to provide prospective graduate students with practical insights into academic quality, affordability, graduation outcomes, and student support. Institutions are evaluated using a proprietary scoring model that incorporates national data sources such as the U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard, NCES College Navigator, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, College Board, and institutional disclosures, as well as benchmarking indicators from organizations including U.S. News & World Report.
NCWU’s Criminal Justice program stands out for its accessibility, flexibility, and emphasis on real-world preparation. The program is designed with the adult learner in mind, providing a supportive, engaging online environment that allows students to advance professionally while continuing to meet the demands of everyday life.
“At North Carolina Wesleyan, we understand that many of our graduate students are working professionals already serving in their communities,” said Katie Farrell, Dean of Adult & Professional Studies. “Our online programs are built to meet students where they are, providing flexibility, individualized support, and coursework that directly connects to career advancement in the criminal justice field.”
NCWU’s Master of Criminal Justice program equips students with advanced knowledge in criminal justice leadership, policy, ethics, and contemporary challenges in law enforcement and public safety. Graduates leave the program prepared to pursue higher-level roles in corrections, law enforcement administration, investigative services, homeland security, and other related fields.
“Our goal is to ensure students are not only earning a degree, but also gaining the confidence and expertise needed to take the next step in their careers,” said Dr. Gail Marsal, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Program Coordinator. “This program supports students as they transition into leadership roles and expand their impact within the criminal justice system.”
OnlineMasters.com’s rankings are focused exclusively on accredited, nonprofit institutions offering online and hybrid master’s programs. Each school is assigned an Online Master’s Score ranging from 0 to 100, measuring overall performance across the criteria most predictive of graduate student success.
NCWU’s recognition in the 2026 rankings reinforces the University’s growing reputation for providing adult learners with innovative graduate opportunities that lead to meaningful career outcomes.
To view the complete ranking, visit:
https://www.onlinemasters.com/best-degree-programs/criminal-justice/
About North Carolina Wesleyan University
North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is a small, private Methodist-affiliated institution with a liberal arts-based core curriculum that prepares students for professional advancement, life-long learning and responsible participation in their communities. NCWU offers liberal arts, professional and graduate degree programs for traditional, transfer and working-adult students.
NCWU offers a best-in-class value and a personally tailored private higher education experience. We invest in each and every student we accept by providing individualized awards, scholarships and grants. Wesleyan is YOUR hometown University that is Personal. Practical, and Purpose-Driven. With students from all over the United States and more than 40 different countries, the University has immense cultural diversity. In addition to its educational mission, NCWU serves as a vital economic engine for the region, contributing over $209 million to the local economy.
To learn more, visit ncwu.edu and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.
About ONLINEMASTERS.COM
OnlineMasters.com is an independent higher education research platform dedicated to helping students identify high-quality online master’s programs. Led by a team of data analysts and higher education researchers, the organization operates separately from editorial and marketing functions to preserve objectivity and methodological integrity.
Using verified federal education data, aggregated third-party rankings including U.S. News & World Report, and labor market research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, OnlineMasters.com produces transparent, research-driven rankings that evaluate academic quality, affordability, return on investment, and student support. Its mission is to provide clear, unbiased insights that empower prospective graduate students to make confident, informed decisions about advanced education.
To learn more, visit https://www.onlinemasters.com.
